Get to know the world of bonsai at Saitama’s Omiya Bonsai Village.

Get to know the world of bonsai at Saitama’s Omiya Bonsai Village.

The art of bonsai brings together a few contradictions. They are simple, yet intricate; natural, yet crafted. And Omiya Bonsai Village puts this living piece of culture on a pedestal. Located in Saitama Prefecture, which lies directly northwest of Tokyo, the neighborhood is home to six distinct gardens open for viewing, although you might catch sight of plenty of bonsai in the gardens of private residences too. (Photo: ©STIB)

An entire village dedicated to bonsai certainly raises a few questions, and the story of Omiya Bonsai Village is an intriguing mix of culture and history. Following the Great Kanto Earthquake in 1923, which caused widespread devastation in Tokyo, a group of professional bonsai gardeners moved from the capital to the neighboring Saitama Prefecture. Their goal: to find more space, fresh air and water suitable for their craft. In 1925, they founded Omiya Bonsai Village. (Photo: ©STIB)

Bonsai is not a type of tree as commonly thought, but an art form that involves altering a tree’s shape and height. Exploring the gardens and streets gives a great glimpse of the sheer diversity of styles. However, for a deeper understanding, pay a visit to Omiya Bonsai Art Museum, the first publicly run museum in the world dedicated to bonsai art. There are more than 120 creations and bonsai-related items, with around 70 pots on display in the building and garden which rotate throughout the year, reflecting the importance of seasonality in Japanese culture. (Photo: ©The Omiya Bonsai Art Museum)

Omiya Bonsai Village

Omiya Bonsai Village

Come to Omiya Bonsai Village, a literal living relic of the past, one that will give you a greater appreciation of the unique art form of bonsai. Less than an hour away from Tokyo by train, you’ll find a sense of serenity among the carefully cultivated leaves. (Photo: ©The Omiya Bonsai Art Museum)

Bonsaicho, Kita Ward, Saitama City, Saitama 331-0805

5-minute walk from Tobu Urban Park Line Omiya-Koen Station or JR Toro Station.

View Direction

Varies by facility.

Closed on Thursday, and New Year’s holidays.

Saitama Tourism and International Relations Bureau

Tel: +81 48-647-1021

Saitama City Visitor’s Guide

https://www.stib.jp/saitamacity-visitorsguide/spots/bonsai/

Please visit https://www.bonsai-art-museum.jp/en/post-5720/ for more information.

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